Unencumbered

Free...as a bird.. that is how I am feeling. It is remarkable!
We went to Barefoot Beach today and Bob presented me with this heart shaped rock.
I have been collecting them for years.. but my most favorite ones come from his hand.
So thankful to be loved from above and here on earth.
Blessed.

I can't begin to express how free I am feeling these days. It is almost as if we are living in another sub-culture. It is like we are cheating in the game of life.. not playing by the rules but just living simply, unencumbered, free! It suits us. Some people would get restless and want to get back to the real world and make a living, find a routine, fill up their schedule. But for now, there is an incredible peace about getting up every morning and just letting that day unfold.

One of the highlights for us was meeting Rachel and her family. I met her on flickr and we quickly connected through of common interest in photography and also through our faith in the Lord. We spent the afternoon and the following day together. It seemed so natural to be together, didn't feel strained or ackward. It felt like we had known each other for a very long time. I was thankful that Bob also connected with her husband Gil. They have stolen our hearts in such a short time. Their children are beyond adorable!!!!

Every afternoon there is a build up of clouds and rain and Bob was holding Nora safe and reassuring her. It was such a precious moment and I was thankful to have caught it. I reminded me often of how the Father speaks reassurance in the storm. We are so blessed.



The other day Bob was getting out of the pool and their daughter said, Bob I like you (all mushy like) and then she said, But I don't like your yucky boobies! We almost died laughing.

We have also re-connected with our friends the Sowers. It is always good to see them! They opened their home to us about 16 years ago (on our 10 anniversary). They have a ministry to pastors and missionaries where they welcome them into their home and hearts. It is such a blessing!!!

We took our car into a Nissan dealership to get our A/C fixed. It is unbearable to drive around with it not working properly. I am started just wearing my bathing suit everywhere and keep a light dress available if we go into a store or a restaurant. How is that for island life?? :-)

We have been enjoying the beach. Bob is back shelling full force but I have to admit I have shifted away from shelling and am more inclined to take pictures. They are so many wonderful things to capture!!



Tonight we took Rachel and her kids out for dinner (her husband had to work) and then we went to the beach, but the lightning was so intense and close that we didn't feel safe being so near the water. We ran back to the car and literally got SOAKED!!!



How cool is that??!! Bob wanted that but they wouldn't part with it.


Ollie took this of me and N.P. I love the sweet expression on her face.. she loves so fully that at times it can be almost heartbreaking. We went out for dinner at the Mad Cow and these chairs were outside. The pink was was calling her name!!!



Not sure why this is blurry but they were running due to the rain, and I was running backwards. Lesson #472: Don't take pictures while running... esp. backwards!! :-)


From the rising of the sun to the setting of the same, the Lord's name is to be praised!!!


Tomorrow we are meeting Rachel and her kids again for another beach day. Low tide is about 9:30 so we will be out in good time for that!

One of our challenges: some people really are doubtful about the success of our life change and that can be disheartening. I guess it does seem a little ridiculous what we are doing but we have a peace about it so when the opposition comes (and sadly it does) we simply cast ourselves at His feet. Believing that He has made us with an adventuresome spirit, a willingness to serve people where ever, and that He is the One who will keep us safe, sound in spirit and available to whoever He puts in our path. It is a lifestyle change that may seem like we are 'checking out' of things but in reality it requires us to trust Him ever MORE then ever. He has been faithful all the way and we are assured that He will continue to lead and guide our feet.

Faithful is He who has called you, and He will bring it to pass - 1 Thes. 5

Many of you have been so encouraging and I thank you for that.